CARES Act grants still available in Hills; businesses should apply

Almost $18,000 in grant money is still available to Hills businesses and non-profit organizations that were adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic since March.
Hills City Council members allocated $32,000 to seven applicants at their regular Aug. 12 meeting.
Distribution amounts ranged from $1,000 to $8,000.
Businesses could apply for up to $4,000, but committee members recommended doubling the amount for two applicants after review.
“It is our recommendation how we distribute the money at this time,” said Alan Leenderts, who served on the grant committee and was acting mayor during the grant distribution vote.
Council members unanimously agreed with the committee’s recommendation.
Hidden Hills Tavern and Hideaway and Willie’s Bar will each receive $8,000.
Receiving $4,000 will be Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Hills Christian School and Tedra’s Day Care.
Two applicants received under $4,000. Kris VanDerBrink (massage) will get $3,000, and Leenderts Lawn Care gets $1,000.
Under the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security act, the city of Hills received $50,327.
The grant money not allocated by Nov. 15 will be returned.
Businesses and non-profit organizations can request a grant application from the Hills City Offices.
To be eligible, a business must meet four criteria:
•must be locally owned and operated for-profit business with a physical establishment within the city of Hills.
•must have operated for at least 12 months prior to March 1.
•must be current on property taxes prior to May 15.
•must be current with any required licenses be in good standing (if applicable.)
They must also be current on all city utilities through the March 2020 billing cycle.